Looking to go electric with your next vehicle purchase? In this article, I‘ll be counting down the top 8 electric vehicles that Georgia drivers are choosing as they make the switch to emissions-free transportation. You‘ll find detailed analysis on which EVs boast the best range, performance, tech features, and value to come out on top in the Peach State. I‘ll also share data on EV sales growth in Georgia and incentives that make electric ownership more affordable. Let‘s dive in!
First, let‘s look at the massive spike in electric vehicle adoption across Georgia over the past few years. Understanding this booming market sets the stage for exploring the specific models winning over drivers.
Electric Vehicle Sales Are Charging Ahead in Georgia
Electric vehicle adoption has absolutely exploded in Georgia recently. In 2021, over 17,000 EVs were sold in Georgia – a huge 57% jump from 2020. To put that into perspective, only 2,574 EVs were registered across the entire state back in 2016. In five short years, EV registrations have increased by a whopping 547%!
What‘s behind this surging demand? Industry experts point to Georgia‘s EV-friendly policies, consumer incentives, and the state‘s expanding public charging network as key drivers. Let‘s look at some of the numbers:
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Georgia now has over 1,000 public charging stations, a 12-fold increase since 2016. This growing infrastructure makes "range anxiety" a thing of the past.
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The state offers an income tax credit up to $5,000 for EV purchases or leases – one of the most generous in the nation.
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Georgia Power has installed hundreds of EV chargers at workplaces statewide through partnerships with major employers.
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Cars like the Nissan LEAF and Chevy Bolt EV are attainably priced before incentives at around $27,000 – $30,000.
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Top EV models now deliver over 300 miles of range per charge, quelling range concerns.
With more options and places to charge, it‘s never been a better time to go electric in Georgia. Check out the table below highlighting the major annual spikes in EV sales over the past five years:
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| Year | EV Sales in Georgia | Annual Increase |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 | 2,574 | N/A |
| 2018 | 6,000 | 133% |
| 2019 | 10,000 | 67% |
| 2020 | 11,000 | 10% |
| 2021 | 17,276 | 57% |
As you can see, 2021 represented a major inflection point with EV sales jumping by over half compared to the prior year. Analysts project this growth trend to continue as more EV options enter the market. Now, let‘s explore the specific electric models winning over Georgia drivers.
The 8 Most Popular EVs in Georgia
Based on new registration data from Experian, these are the top electric vehicles Georgia drivers chose in 2021:
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| Rank | EV Model | 2021 Registrations |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tesla Model 3 | 8,507 |
| 2 | Tesla Model Y | 5,739 |
| 3 | Tesla Model S | 2,252 |
| 4 | Ford Mustang Mach-E | 1,465 |
| 5 | Nissan LEAF | 1,103 |
| 6 | Chevrolet Bolt EV | 1,082 |
| 7 | Audi e-tron | 1,008 |
| 8 | Volkswagen ID.4 | 913 |
Clearly, Tesla has captured the lion‘s share of the EV market in Georgia. But major brands like Ford, VW, Audi and Chevrolet are making inroads with improved electric offerings. Now, let‘s take a closer look at each of these top 8 models and what makes them so popular in Georgia.
1. Tesla Model 3
As Tesla‘s affordable flagship, the Model 3 has been a runaway success across the U.S. and especially here in Georgia. Priced from $43,990, the entry rear-wheel drive Model 3 offers up to 358 miles of range, 0-60 mph in 5.8 seconds, and access to Tesla‘s vast Supercharger fast charging network.
Over-the-air software updates add new capabilities and improve performance over time. Tesla‘s Autopilot system also brings advanced driver assistance features like automated steering, braking, lane changes, and self-parking.
With over 8,500 new registrations in 2021, the Model 3 continues to dominate EV sales in Georgia. For the high-tech electric driving experience Tesla is known for, the Model 3 delivers in spades.
2. Tesla Model Y
Georgia drivers have eagerly adopted Tesla‘s Model Y electric compact SUV since its 2020 debut. With seating for 5 or 7, expansive cargo space, and available third-row seats, it offers impressive practicality.
The dual motor Long Range Model Y provides up to 330 miles of range and a tantalizing 3.5 second 0-60 mph time. Like all Teslas, it offers advanced Autopilot, over-the-air software updates that enhance driving capabilities, and off-the-charts performance.
Nearly 5,700 new Model Y registrations make it the second most popular EV choice in Georgia last year. For an all-electric SUV with space and technology, it‘s easy to see the appeal.
3. Tesla Model S
As Tesla‘s flagship luxury sedan, the Model S almost singlehandedly proved EVs could provide breathtaking performance and technology. The latest 2022 Plaid model goes 0-60 mph in under 2 seconds – hypercar territory!
Available Long Range models still reach 405 miles per charge. With up to 1,020 horsepower on tap and elegant interior appointments, the Model S offers exclusivity and innovation befitting its $104,990+ price tag.
Over 2,200 new Model S registrations in Georgia last year prove Tesla still dominates the high-end electric sedan space. The Model S remains the ultimate electric tech showcase.
4. Ford Mustang Mach-E
Performance fans have flocked to the Ford Mustang Mach-E since its debut in late 2020. As Ford‘s first ground-up EV design, the Mach-E bridges the automaker‘s heritage with electric transportation.
The Mach-E can be configured for comfort or speed, with some GT models rocketing to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds. With up to 314 miles of range and leading-edge tech like hands-free highway driving assist, the Mach-E checks all the boxes.
Nearly 1,500 Georgians registered new Mach-E models last year, making it the state‘s most registered EV crossover behind Tesla. The Mach-E proves Ford is stepping up its EV game in a big way.
5. Nissan LEAF
The humble Nissan LEAF has been a steadfast electric pioneer since its 2010 debut. Even entering its second decade of production, the LEAF remains a sensible and affordable EV choice.
The LEAF Plus model extends range up to 226 miles between charges. With Nissan Energy charging partnerships providing LEAF owners access to over 200 quick chargers across Georgia, long trips are worry-free.
With over 1,100 new registrations last year, the LEAF remains a popular EV option for Georgians. Sometimes you can‘t beat the simplicity and value of a "known quantity" EV pioneer.
6. Chevrolet Bolt EV
The Chevy Bolt EV‘s blend of practicality and affordability has won over Georgia drivers in recent years. Priced around $26,000 before incentives, the Bolt has an EPA-rated 259 miles of range – plenty for daily driving.
Regenerative braking allows the Bolt to capture kinetic energy from braking and convert it into electricity. The Bolt also provides ample tech like a 10.2-inch touchscreen, smartphone app integration, and driver assistance safety features.
Over 1,000 new Bolt registrations in Georgia prove Chevy has a compelling budget-friendly EV option. For an entry-level EV with solid range and amenities, the Bolt excels.
7. Audi e-tron
Luxury SUV shoppers have embraced Audi‘s first fully-electric offering, the e-tron. Audi brought its trademark refinement and craftsmanship to the table for discerning drivers seeking an EV with prestige.
The midsize e-tron SUV delivers brisk acceleration up to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds courtesy of 355-horsepower delivered instantly. Available upgrades like virtual exterior mirrors showcase Audi‘s innovative spirit.
Over 1,000 e-tron models were registered in Georgia last year as luxury buyers migrate toward electric options. With technology and performance befitting its four-ring badge, the e-tron satisfies.
8. Volkswagen ID.4
The ID.4 marks VW‘s first serious entry into the EV SUV segment, blending familiar crossover capabilities with next-gen technology. The interior‘s minimalist design approach gives a roomy, ultramodern feel.
Currently priced around $37,500 in base form, the ID.4 can be configured with available all-wheel drive and larger battery packs. Free charging for ID.4 owners via Electrify America‘s network is a big perk.
As VW ramps up EV production, the ID.4 has caught on with just over 900 new registrations in Georgia last year. With long-term plans to lead electrification globally, VW is just getting started.
Find the Right EV for You
I hope this overview gives you a clearer picture of the top electric models Georgia drivers have embraced as EV options keep expanding. There‘s never been a better time to leverage Georgia‘s EV incentives and make the switch yourself. Each model has unique strengths, so consider your must-have features and driving needs as you narrow it down.
With more public charging stations to alleviate range anxiety and attractive tax credits to offset costs, you‘ll soon enjoy a simpler, gas-free driving life. Georgia‘s electric future is here. Now it‘s time to pick your EV match and plug in!
